One of the important aspects of Wild Nature Institute's community environmental education and advocacy work is sharing information and providing training for Tanzania's safari guides and people in the tourism industry. Tourism is one of the most lucrative sectors of the Tanzanian economy, bringing critical dollars and jobs as well as creating an incentive to protect wildlife and habitat. Environmental education is an excellent way to convey the results of our research to local Tanzanians, who can then share the knowledge with their colleagues, friends, and families throughout the country.

Derek Lee speaks about giraffes and our research with safari guides-in-training

Monica Bond and Derek Lee discuss giraffes with safari guides and people in the tourism industry at a science presentation sponsored by the Interpretive Guides Society and Tanzanian Association of Tour Operators

The goal is to establish standards and certifications for Tanzanian guides, and ensure a high-quality experience for tourists in one of the most spectacularly wildlife-rich countries on the planet. Our efforts bridge science and public outreach, promote science-based conservation values in guides and their local communities, and spread a conservation message to tourists from across the globe.